Top 5 Nigerian Athletes Who Will Shine at the Paris Olympics
The Olympics are very important for Nigerian sports, and this year’s event in Paris is no exception.
Nigeria first won a major Olympic medal in 1964 at the Tokyo Games, where Nojeem Maiyegun won bronze in boxing.
A highlight for Nigerian football came at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, where the Dream Team surprised everyone by beating Brazil and Argentina to win gold.
Chioma Ajunwa also made history in Atlanta by winning gold in the women’s long jump, making her the first and only individual Nigerian to win an Olympic gold.
The 2024 Paris Olympics start on July 26, and Nigeria will compete in 11 events, such as football, basketball, long jump, and weightlifting.
A total of 82 Nigerian athletes will be there, and here are some to keep an eye on:
Nigerian Athletes to Watch in Paris:
- Tobi Amusan
A world record holder in the 100m hurdles, Amusan is leading Nigeria’s track team. With her great form, Nigeria might win more Olympic gold medals, having earned three since 1964.
2. Ese Brume
Born in the year Nigeria won its first Olympic gold, Brume is aiming to win gold in the long jump in Paris. She is the current Commonwealth champion and holds records in both the Commonwealth Games and Africa.
3. Chukwuebuka Enekwech
Returning as the African shot put champion, Enekwech, at 31, is a strong medal contender for Nigeria.
4. Favour Ashe
The 22-year-old Ashe recently set a personal best of 9.94s in the 100m, the fastest in the NCAA for 2024 and the second-fastest worldwide this year. He could make a big impact in Paris. Catch all Nigerian track and field events live on SuperSport via DStv and GOtv.
5. Asisat Oshoala
After a tough World Cup, the Super Falcons, led by Oshoala, who is the African Footballer of the Year, have a chance to shine at the Olympics, starting with their match against Brazil on July 25.